Are you craving that comforting, nostalgic taste of Stouffer's escalloped apples but want a healthier, homemade version? Look no further! This copycat recipe delivers all the warm, spiced apple goodness you remember, without the preservatives and artificial ingredients. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a quick dessert or a cozy side dish, and a delicious example of homemade cooking at its finest. Get ready to enjoy a truly delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix are ideal), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup apple cider or apple juice
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional, for added sweetness and texture)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This simple step ensures easy cleanup later.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps for an even flavor distribution.
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Add Apples & Raisins (Optional): Gently toss the sliced apples and raisins (if using) with the dry ingredient mixture until the apples are evenly coated.
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Add Liquid & Butter: Stir in the apple cider (or juice) and melted butter. The liquid will help create a lovely sauce while baking.
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Bake to Perfection: Pour the apple mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is bubbly and golden brown. You'll know they're done when a fork easily pierces the apples.
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Cool & Serve: Let the escalloped apples cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even further. Enjoy warm!
Tips for the Best Escalloped Apples:
- Apple Selection: Choosing a mix of apple varieties adds depth of flavor and texture. Granny Smith provides tartness, while Honeycrisp offers sweetness.
- Thickness of Slices: Thinly slicing the apples ensures even cooking. Aim for slices about 1/8 inch thick.
- Don't Overbake: Overbaking can lead to mushy apples. Start checking for doneness around the 45-minute mark.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve warm as a comforting dessert, or as a delicious side dish alongside roasted meats or poultry. A scoop of vanilla ice cream is a fantastic addition!
Variations:
- Spiced it Up: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom for an extra warm, aromatic flavor.
- Cranberry Bliss: Incorporate 1/2 cup of dried cranberries for a festive twist.
- Lemon Zest: A tablespoon of lemon zest brightens up the flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-45g
- Fat: Approximately 8-10g
- Protein: Approximately 2-3g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy recipe is perfect for beginner cooks and experienced chefs alike. It’s a delightful example of transforming simple ingredients into a delicious and comforting dish. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!